Since I’m actively querying my second manuscript at the moment, I thought I’d share some of my favourite online resources for writing your strongest query. Having received some requests to read both of my manuscripts, I’m thinking I have actually learnt a thing or two over the years from these places. Take a look and use these resources to hone your query letter.
A query letter is one of the most crucial pieces of the marketing puzzle, aside from writing the best manuscript you can!
Want to grow your audience? You need a compelling brand message.
Quite the query, Amy Trueblood
This blog contains examples of successful queries, split into genres and categories. There’s sometimes a little introduction from author, Amy Trueblood, who publishes the blog, and/or a fun tidbit of information. I find it really helpful to have the queries split by genre and haven’t found another blog like it.
Query Shark, Janet Reid
Janet Reid is a literary agent by day and the QueryShark by night. Her blog is brutal but ultimately insightful. She unpicks queries line by line and shows the progress of revisions. She doesn’t mince her words. I learnt a huge amount by trawling through her archives but I’m not sure I’d have the guts to send a query to her for review. Not least because she very clearly states you need to read EVERY SINGLE blog post (and they go back to 2004) before contacting her. It’s true though, if you do read even half of the posts, you’ll see many of the mistakes you’re making.
Many agents tweet about query letters. Some are just short rants about things not to do (e.g. don’t comment on the agent’s appearance, even if you think it’s flattering. It’s not, it’s just creepy!) Some are longer threads detailing what to include and avoid in query letters. Authors tweet advice about query letters too. I remember a thread which contained a mad libs style formula to get you started with your query. Leading up to events like Pitch parties, you’ll see posts about how to write a Twitter pitch (i.e. one limited to 280 characters). While you’re afforded a lot more space in a conventional query letter, I often find I end up with a strong opening hook for my query letter if I think in terms of a Twitter pitch.
Literary agents’ blogs
As I’ve followed more and more agents on Twitter, I’ve noticed some of them publishing blog posts about query letters. These are gold – advice direct from the source, and from an agent who represents your genre. If you’re new to Twitter or don’t follow many people, start by following some of the authors in your genre, then take a look at who they’re following. When you see the descriptor, ‘agent’, follow away!
Want to grow your audience? You need a compelling brand message.
Not a how-to, but a list of literary agents and agencies. I just have the free version and with that you can narrow your search to genre and agents open to submissions. As well as links to each agency’s website, you can track when you’ve sent your query to which agent and note their response. With the paid version, you get premium services like the ability to search by location and to track more than one query at a time.
A critique group
I’m indebted to my critique group not just for patiently reading sections of my manuscript, but for reading and re-reading iterations of my query letters. If you don’t have a critique group, it’s one of the best things you can do for your writing career. Search for local writing groups using Facebook or Meetup and reach out to fellow writers. It can be virtual too. There are Facebook groups where writers offer mutual critiques and I know lots of people who are part of successful online critique groups.
Writing an enticing query letter is notoriously challenging but there are a lot of excellent articles out there. Which are your favourite query resources? Please share in the comments below.
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